Impact NW

On June 28th, the Supreme Court ruled in Grants Pass v. Johnson that local governments can legally penalize people for camping outdoors, even when no other shelter is available.  The decision overturns the Martin v. Boise ruling, which maintained that under the Eighth Amendment's prohibition of cruel and unusual punishments, cities cannot enforce public camping ordinances like those in Grants Pass when there is not enough shelter available. Impact NW condemns this ruling because we believe that housing is a human right. No one should be punished for their involuntary housing insecurity. (See our blog post here: https://lnkd.in/g2paQqz2) This country’s inadequate housing system is responsible for the increase in homelessness that we are witnessing nationwide. The high cost of homes, unlivable wages, and shortage of affordable housing are key drivers of this crisis. Our own government creates the circumstances that force people onto the streets and then criminalizes them for it, making the Grants Pass v. Johnson ruling both inhumane and illogical. Penalization is not a solution. Alternatively, Impact NW’s Homelessness Prevention Strategy provides evidence-based, cost-effective solutions to ending our housing crisis. We urge lawmakers to use it as a guide in setting law and policy, because we know what works. (Read the strategy here: https://lnkd.in/gHC2s674) All of us at Impact NW remain dedicated to supporting our neighbors who face housing insecurity. We will continue to advocate for human-centered policy that puts people first. At Impact NW, we find a way.

Celebrate Juneteenth with Impact NW! We're excited to march in Juneteenth Oregon's Parade on Saturday, June 15th! Join us at King Elementary School parking lot by 10 AM. Register to march with us through this link: https://lnkd.in/gDJBN-z8. Thank you to Juneteenth Oregon for hosting such an important celebration.

Introducing our 2024 Homelessness Prevention Strategy: The overwhelming cost of housing in the Portland region leaves too many people with little choice but to camp outside, double up in cramped apartments, or take other drastic measures. In response to the persisting homelessness crisis, Impact NW has created an updated 2024 Homelessness Prevention Strategy. This document explains the key factors amplifying housing insecurity and homelessness in Portland and communicates Impact NW’s role in addressing this humanitarian crisis through suggested near and long term solutions. Want to learn more and get involved? Read our 2024 Homelessness Prevention Strategy and join our Advocacy group at https://lnkd.in/gHC2s674 Help us create a future where housing is a human right.

Excited to share Michael's Story, this year's installment in the Impact Stories video series for Impact NW. Meeting and working with Michael was an honor, and highlighting Impact NW's relentless work keeping folks housed, stabilizing families, and helping people thrive is something I look forward to every year. Give it a watch!

Michael's Story powerfully illustrates how safe and stable housing can profoundly impact our overall health and well-being. "It helps me be relaxed in my mind," he says about his apartment secured through Impact NW's housing services, highlighting that housing is healthcare. Everyone deserves the right to safe housing, empowering them to live a fulfilling life. Watch Michael's Story, produced by Person People, and witness how Impact NW prevents homelessness, ensuring that members of our community have a place to call home.

Last night, Mandrill Taylor, MD, MPH delivered a thought-provoking keynote at our annual fundraiser, We ARE Impact. His message was clear: homelessness is a multifaceted health crisis. We were inspired by Dr. Taylor's dedication to creating housing solutions with integrated health services. This holistic approach tackles both immediate needs and long-term health, fostering a path to healing entire communities. Thank you, Dr. Taylor! And thank you to all who attended and made this night possible.

Tomorrow is We ARE Impact! Celebrate our homelessness prevention efforts at our annual fundraising event happening tomorrow (5/14), from 5:30-7:30PM at AVENUE PORTLAND! The event will consist of a happy hour with heavy appetizers and complimentary beer and wine, followed by incredible storytelling from our staff and the premiere of Michael’s Story, produced by Person People. Can't attend? Donate today and help us continue empowering individuals like Michael: https://lnkd.in/gabSvpaM Thank you for your continued support!

Get a glimpse into Michael's Story. This engaging trailer, produced by Person People, offers a captivating look into the life of Michael, a client of Impact NW's housing services. Together, can we find a way. To watch the full video, RSVP for our annual fundraising event, We ARE Impact, where Michael's story will debut. Discover how finding and maintaining housing can mean everything for your health and well-being. https://lnkd.in/gvswXgFb

Impact NW’s Supa Fresh is hiring a seasonal Crew Leader! Are you passionate about education, food, agriculture and empowering others to succeed? Do you have experience leading and/or teaching youth? Apply to be a Crew Leader today! https://lnkd.in/gfcUfmTP

Last week, the NAO team had the pleasure of putting together science kits for Impact NW’s AKA Science program. AKA Science (All Kids Are Scientists) is a program of Impact NW’s Youth & Family Services that supports the organization’s efforts to “level the playing field” by making high-quality enrichment opportunities accessible to all students. Each AKA Science kit includes a field-tested curriculum, interactive instructor training, and supplies to bring the curriculum to life. A big shoutout to AKA Science Program Supervisor Carrie Buo, PhD for coordinating and welcoming our team. If you’re looking for ways to make a difference, check out Impact NW and the 30+ programs they offer.